This is my list of 5 instances of gothic Media, and why they are considered, in my mind, to be gothic.

1: A Series of Unfortunate Events

This series, both the film and books, is saturated in foreshadowing and essence. You are transported to a world that, though not described in depth, is seen perfectly based on the little hints of description tucked away through the pages. Mystery lures around every corner, and you ask questions the entire time that are answered bit by bit, with clues and resolutions appearing in each book.

2: A Long Fatal Love Chase by Louisa May Alcott

This book is gothic in many ways, but the main elements of gothic literatures I detect when reading it are as follows: odd, unconventional characters, mysterions pasts, a compulling villain who plans every step, gothic architechture, strong emotional ties, and forbidden love. The most gothic part is the pure tragedy that is the plot line; this book is tragic to the full definition of the word.

3: The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux

This book is eerrie, mysterious, full of psychology and metaphor, and every character is intense and unique. You feel strong emotion the entire time you read.

4: Great Expectations by Charles Dickens

This literary work rings very gothic in my ears. The secrets in the antagonist's past alter the plot drastically, lives are changed, emotion is deep and rich, the main antagonist literally lives in a dilapidated, crumbling mansion and wears a wedding dress that is decades old. Tragic deaths occur multiple times, and the ending, though not happy, is not entirely bitter, either. The catalyst of the plot is the dark psychology of the antagonist and her plans to ruin the lives of any man she meets.

5: Alice in Wonderland by Tim Burton

This film has a conplex plot, with elements of the Victorian Era and the Victorian society's refusal to accept eccentric and unique people, of which there are many in this story. Their is metaphor throughout the entire film and psychologically disturbed characters all around. There is revenge and fear, bravery and love, and a very gothic aesthetic.

Jay Berg

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